Dan Berman, the former city manger of Trinidad, was hired earlier this week by the city to work as a consultant while the city continues its search for their next city manager.

“I’ve worked hard there for four and half years,” Berman said. “I care about the community and the state of the town and don’t want to leave them in a lurch.”

Berman announced his resignation in the fall of last year. But the city asked Berman to stay on through the holidays, and with his new contract as a consultant, will have him around for another nine weeks.

According to Gabriel Adams, the city clerk, Berman’s contract bills him at $65 an hour, with a “not to exceed” clause of 135 hours for the nine-week period which spans from Jan.14 to March 17.

Berman said he’s proud of the work accomplished by the city during his time there, especially the passing of policies regulating vacation rentals. His time in the city has been filled with “so many wonderful people who were a pleasure to work with.”

“It’s been a real honor to be a public servant in Trinidad,” he said.

Mayor Steve Ladwig, while unable to comment on the hiring process of the new city manager, applauded Berman’s service as city manager.

“He’s committed to helping the city keep functioning while we’re in the hiring process,” he said. “I’m glad to have him; he knows what he’s doing.”

Berman left his position as city manager to settle into a new role as the executive director of the Mad River Alliance.

“I’m excited to continue to work for the community and help protect the Mad River,” he said. “They are great people that care about water quality and the integrity of the watershed.”

Berman had some simple advice for his predecessor.

“Get out and walk. It’s a small town and you can meet most people in the town before long,” he said. “Being on the street and getting to know the community is where it’s at — jump in and be part of the community.”

The council is set to meet for a closed session to discuss the hiring of a new city manager and interview candidates on Jan. 14 at 4 p.m., according to the agenda.